Toongabbie’s new cenotaph will stand as a lasting memory to all who have served our nation in war, conflicts and peace-keeping missions, according to Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
Speaking at the official unveiling of the memorial on Sunday, Mr Chester said the impressive cenotaph was a credit to the local community.
“After a couple of weeks of disgusting attacks on war memorials in Canberra, it was terrific to be in Toongabbie and see the respectful community gather to officially unveil a new cenotaph,” Mr Chester said.
“All credit to local resident Scott Mitchell and his team of helpers who came up with the inspiration for a cenotaph and did the hard work to secure funding and bring the project to fruition.
“It’s a beautiful reminder of the need to remember the fallen and sits proudly in the town’s recreation reserve alongside the historic hall and pavilion.
“The freedoms we enjoy as Australians were a result of the service and sacrifice of previous generations, and it was good to see veterans, current serving defence force personnel and family groups gathering to pay their respects.
“The events in Canberra over the past two weeks were beneath contempt, and I know the overwhelming majority of Australians understand the importance of respectful commemoration and recognition.
“We live amongst current serving ADF personnel in Gippsland, and they should be proud of their service and know that we respect them and their families, who enable them to do their job to keep our country safe.”
Sunday’s unveiling was supported by local personnel from the East Sale RAAF Base, a ceremonial Lighthorse contingent and veterans from across Victoria.
